The public is invited to cheer on the chefs and to learn more about disaster preparedness. The first 75 people to arrive will receive a free Ready Houston roll-up picnic blanket. In addition, there will be several giveaways, including restaurant gift certificates.

Fellini Gelato & Caffe has opened a second location in CityCentre. The Italian-inspired shop serves pastries, house-made gelato and panini, as well as specialty coffees. 794 Sorella Court, 713-545-5540

Crespo Pizza and Italian Grill, which closed in December, has found a new home in the Energy Corridor. In addition to pizzas and sandwiches, Crespo offers a variety of pasta dishes, including a vegetarian lasagna. 1809 Eldridge Parkway, 713-978-7885

Lotus Seafood has opened a third location. Like its sibs, the new restaurant in the Ashford Park area specializes in Cajun-style boiled seafood, fried rice and chicken wings. 2825 S. Kirkwood, 281-741-7091

Pie Five Pizza will open its fifth Houston-area store in Webster on Friday. The Texas-based franchise specializes in made-to-order pizzas that cook in less than two minutes. In celebration of the opening, all Houston-area stores will offer a buy-one, get-one pizza deal from 6-8 p.m. Oct. 3. 19325 I-45 S., Webster; 281-554-3091.